Body armour is surrounded by myths, and believing the wrong one can lead to a poor buying decision. Here are five of the most common, set straight.
Myth 1: Body armour is 'bulletproof'
No armour is bulletproof against every threat. Armour is bullet-resistant to a stated level under test conditions. We describe what each item is rated to help against, and where that protection ends.
Myth 2: A higher level is always better
Higher levels mean more weight and bulk. A rifle-rated hard plate is overkill, and uncomfortable, if your realistic concern is a handgun or a knife. Match the protection level to the threat.
Myth 3: One vest covers every threat
Ballistic, stab and cut protection are different. A ballistic vest is not stab-rated, and a stab vest is not ballistic. Some products are multi-threat, but always check.
Myth 4: Armour protects your whole body
Coverage is always partial. A vest protects the area its panels cover, not your limbs, neck or head. Helmets, panels and add-ons extend coverage but never make you invulnerable.
Myth 5: All ratings are independently certified
On our site, ratings are manufacturer-stated and are not independently verified by R Supply Store. We are transparent about this so your expectations stay realistic.
The takeaway
Buy for the threat you realistically face, understand the limits, and treat armour as one layer of safety. Browse the full range or read our covert vest guide.
R Supply Store supplies protective equipment with manufacturer-stated ratings that are not independently verified by us. Nothing here is bulletproof against every threat, and this article is general information, not legal advice. Civilian ownership of body armour is legal in England, Wales and Scotland; buyers are responsible for confirming ownership and import legality for their location.